One of the biggest buzzwords in wellness right now, “adaptogens” also have a role to play in skin care. Though they’re primarily added to serums and creams to bring stressed skin back to a balanced state, New York dermatologist Dennis Gross, MD says adaptogenic herbs possess many additional properties that can also help with other concerns like dark spots, breakouts and even rosacea. These nine live up to their claims.
Éminence Organic Skin Care Snow Mushroom & Reishi Masque ($84)
Fueled by ultra-hydrating and antioxidant-dense snow mushroom and reishi, this creamy mask helps nourish the skin barrier to enhance elasticity and reduce puffiness.
Dr. Dennis Gross B³Adaptive SuperFoods Stress Rescue Super Serum ($74)
When stress wreaks havoc on your complexion, this silky serum utilizes niacinamide, ashwagandha and goji berry to help skin adapt and reduce redness for a brighter, calmer result.
Youth to the People Adaptogen Moisture Cream ($58)
The trio of ashwagandha, reishi and rhodiola in this rich yet fast-absorbing cream work to soothe effects of environmental stress on the skin, such as dryness, redness and irritation.
Josh Rosebrook Active Infusion Oil ($75)
Chaga mushroom is the standout herb in this gentle, antioxidant-rich oil, which features a retinoid, vitamin C and vitamin E to smooth fine lines and brighten tired-looking skin.
Six Gldn Botanical Toner ($69)
Formulated with a proprietary plant and herb complex that was handcrafted by scientists and botanical experts with more than 400 years of expertise, this adaptogen-rich liquid is a triple threat in the toner department, as it hydrates, balances and refines pores simultaneously.
Solvasa Golden Harmony Cleansing Mask ($41)
This clay-based cleansing mask screams skin-care ritual: massage it into skin with your fingertips or sweep it on with a skin-care brush (my personal favorite). Leave it on for two minutes to reap the purifying and glow-getting benefits of turmeric, chaga mushroom, ashwagandha and probiotics.
Naturopathica Holy Basil & Retinol Ageless Night Oil ($124)
The supercharged trio of retinol, bakuchiol and adaptogenic holy basil in this nongreasy oil give it potent age-defying properties, helping to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and discoloration over time.
Bad Habit Palm Reader Adaptogen Nourishing Hand Cream ($18)
A conversation starter and potent hydrator in one, this fast-absorbing cream not only soothes over-sanitized hands with a cocktail of rich oils and butters, but also delivers anti-stress benefits thanks to adaptogenic rhodiola rosea root and the comforting scent of mandarin and chamomile.
Terra/form Beauty SPF 50 Moisturizer ($59)
Adding broad-spectrum CBD oil to a sunscreen moisturizer may seem unorthodox, but in this lightweight formula, it works—and really well. The calming benefits of hemp mixed with adaptogenic ashwagandha and reishi mushroom help counteract any inflammation that occurs within the skin due to sun exposure.